22-04-2025
Hampton Roads resident reflects on death of Pope Francis
NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) — For many, Pope Francis was more than just the head of the Catholic Church. He was a beacon of hope, someone who showed compassion for all and a pontiff many say will be deeply missed.
Pope Francis dies at 88
There was an outpouring of love and remembrance Monday night for Pope Francis, and Virginians are taking the time to reflect.
Bishop Barry C. Knestout, who leads the Catholic Diocese of Richmond, offered mass Monday for those who wanted to pray and reflect.
'The loss of a pope is always that sadness as someone we know and care about being gone from us,' Knestout said.
Catholic Diocese of Richmond mourns passing of Pope Francis
In Norfolk, 10 On Your Side spoke to Matthew Francis, a former youth bishop leader in Georgia who said he adored the pope and everything he represented.
'Someone who would always give — I think that he always kept people, the human race first, and for a lot of individuals, religion is a must, and that's a foundation for people,' Francis said.
It's a foundation Pope Francis has continued to shape, with some calling him a Catholic church reformer. He spoke against income inequality and the treatment of marginalized people. The pope used his voice up until his death, which came just one day after Resurrection Sunday. He used that voice to bring people together.
'Regardless of what denomination, or whatever it is, or what country or what name, you always put the most high first and that, he stood on,' Francis said.
Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Newport News will host a mass at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday. All are welcome to come mourn the Pope and pray.
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